Gmail is getting a major redesign that you may or may not like

Since the inception of Material Design, Google has gradually been applying its design cues across all its products. The Android platform has been enjoying it for a few years now, and certain web and mobile apps have also received updated interfaces.

One web app, however, hasn’t been part of that list, but that’s going to change soon. Based on leaks, the web version of Gmail is finally getting a taste of Material Design.

Although the news was around for a few days already, it’s only now we’re seeing previews of the design overhaul. These screenshots obtained by TechCrunch give us a clear idea of what to expect:

These screenshots don’t reveal a whole lot, but they do give us a glimpse at the sidebar that may be implemented. This should help fill up all the unused space of Gmail’s web interface and make multitasking worlds faster.

The icons have also been updated in line with Material Design’s aesthetics. They should be easier to click now as compared to the text links of today. Snoozing is another useful-looking feature wherein you can make chosen emails reappear whenever you choose to.

Finally, we have smart replies just like on the Gmail mobile app. This allows you to simply click on a pre-made response that Google generates for you.

Other than those, the arrangement of elements looks nearly identical to what we’re already used to. The search bar is on top, quick actions are below it, the settings menu can be found to the right, and all categories are found within the usual left sidebar.

Let’s just hope it’ll be as fast as it already is — if not faster. Implementation will be happening in the next few weeks supposedly.

These new Ikea curtains fight indoor pollution by filtering air

Ikea has just announced groundbreaking technology that will not only add to your home decorating or homemaking ventures, as the brand has been apt to do; it will also help keep your living space cleaner by purifying indoor air.

This is Ikea’s Gunrid curtain and it works just like a plant: It breaks down harmful pollutants when it gets in contact with light. The fabric itself has undergone “mineral-based surface treatment” which enables it to destroy common indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and odor. And since the tech is in the fabric, future products aren’t, in theory, limited to just curtains.

Unknown to most, indoor air pollution is a big deal with some living spaces found to have conditions five times worse than other parts of the world and a higher death toll than outdoor pollution. Mauricio Affonso, Product Developer at Ikea Range & Supply says, “We are creating an affordable and space-saving air purifying solution that also makes the home more beautiful.”

Samsung announces new generation of wearables

Aside from the numerous Samsung flagships announced at Unpacked in San Francisco, there were also a number of wearables announced: The Galaxy Watch Active, Galaxy Fit, Galaxy Fit e, and the Galaxy Buds.

The Galaxy Watch Active is the sporty version of Samsung’s Galaxy Watch but without the iconic spinning bezel. It’s equipped with stress, fitness, and sleep tracking, plus GPS, NFC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities. Of course, it also has Bixby built in.

The watch also has wireless charging capabilities which will work well with the PowerShare-capable Galaxy S10. It runs on an Exynos 9110 processor and a 230mAh battery. It’ll come in four pretty colors: rose gold, sea green, black, and silver. It’ll be available on March 8 in the US for US$ 200.

The Galaxy Fit and Fit e are slim fitness wearables that will automatically track your activities. Equipped with a heart rate monitor and a 0.95-inch AMOLED display, this water-resistant baby is perfect for those who want something less obtrusive. They’ll be available in the second quarter of 2019.

Last but not least: The Galaxy Buds. Powered by AKG, you’re ensured a great listening experience. It boasts six hours of battery life for streaming and five hours on calls, with an additional seven hours with its charging case. That same case gives 1.7 hours of power on a 15-minute charge. Of course, it also has wireless charging.

These Buds are available starting March 8 and they’ll retail for US$ 129. It comes in three colors: black, white, and a fun yellow.